Hundreds of volunteers helped dig their neighbors out of mud following Montecito debris flow
Courtesy photo.
SACRAMENTO–Recognizing their heroic efforts to help their neighbors following the devastating Montecito debris flow, State Senator Hannah-Beth Jackson (D-Santa Barbara) on June 6 honored the Santa Barbara Bucket Brigade as Senate District 19’s Nonprofit of the Year. Each year on California Nonprofits Day, members of the California State Legislature present a nonprofit from their district with a resolution commending their contributions to the community.
The Santa Barbara Bucket Brigade was formed after the Thomas Fire and subsequent debris flow, when a group of volunteers came together to help dig their neighbors out of the mud and debris. All told, over 3,000 volunteers worked over three months to dig out nearly 80 homes and parks.
“Following the devastating Montecito debris flow, hundreds of Bucket Brigade volunteers stepped up, grabbed shovels, and dug their neighbors out of the mud and debris that had engulfed their homes and property. The Bucket Brigade is a heartwarming and inspiring example of community coming together to help one another during a time of need. I am honored to recognize the Bucket Brigade’s selfless acts of kindness and their ongoing commitment to the community,” said Senator Jackson.
The Bucket Brigade was formed by Montecito resident Abe Powell, who worked to mobilize the outpouring of support for Montecito residents following the devastating debris flow. “After the disaster of January 9th, people saw the Santa Barbara Bucket Brigade operating from a place of compassion, coordination and collaboration and wanted to help. In just a few weeks we grew from a small team to over 3,000 volunteers and we all learned an important lesson: Helping heals the helpers and the helped,” he said.
Jackson represents the 19th Senate District, which includes all of Santa Barbara County and western Ventura County.